Spirit mask used during sacred ceremonies - Yippae - Asmat - West-Papua (Nieuw Guinea) (No Reserve Price)

The **yippae mask** is an extraordinary creation from the Central Asmat people of Papua, Indonesia, deeply rooted in their rich cultural and spiritual traditions. These masks are more than just decorative items; they are powerful symbols of the Asmat's connection to their ancestors and the spiritual world.

Crafted from natural materials such as wood, fiber, and pigments, each yippae mask is intricately carved and painted with bold, vibrant designs that reflect the distinct artistic style of the Asmat. These masks are used in important ceremonial dances, particularly during the **yippae festival**—a sacred event that honors the spirits of the deceased and ensures the well-being of the community.

In Asmat culture, the yippae mask is believed to embody the spirit of an ancestor, and when worn during the ritual dances, it is said to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. The wearer of the mask, often an elder or a respected member of the tribe, becomes a vessel for the ancestor’s spirit, guiding the community and bestowing blessings upon them

Welcome addition to any collection of tribal New Guinea Art

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Sold by Koos Knol, ethnographer and anthropologist, dealer of Papua Tribal Art for more than 30 years, expert and author of the book “Papua Blues”, written in Dutch. (Maybe in English next year.)  Published end of October 2024
A book about inside stories, a book that deals with the many encounters with special people in West Papua, the impressive experiences that the author has, about special encounters with men and women who tell him about secret things, about ethnographic objects and initiate him into the rituals and ceremonies.
A must have for collectors, ethnographers, ethnologists, anthropologists and museums
 
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